Realizing an Evidence-Based Framework for the Management and Delivery of Family Support Services

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Work
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Primary prevention organizations require robust programming to effectively support vulnerable families.
• Assessing program efficacy against evidence-based practice (EBP) frameworks is crucial for service improvement.
• A collaborative approach between service providers and academic researchers can enhance EBP implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To partner with a primary prevention organization to review its programming using an evidence-based practice (EBP) framework.
• To enhance the organization's EBP culture by improving staff understanding and uptake of family support programs.
• To inform service users and stakeholders about the evidentiary status of support services, promoting informed decision-making.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative partnership was established between service providers and academic researchers.
• An evidence-based practice (EBP) framework was utilized to assess program efficacy.
• A common language was employed within the framework to evaluate nine distinct family support programs.

Main Results:

• All nine family support programs were successfully mapped into the EBP framework.
• The organization's EBP culture was strengthened through increased staff understanding and program adoption.
• Service users and stakeholders gained clarity on the evidentiary basis of various support services.

Conclusions:

• Staff are now more intentional and informed when utilizing evidence-based practices (EBPs) to support vulnerable families.
• The implemented process serves as a potential model for other organizations offering family support services, including those addressing housing crises or providing infant care.
• Informed families can become more engaged partners, better equipped to evaluate the risks and benefits of available support services.